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When the Shockers host Indiana State tonight at Koch Arena, Gladden likely won't have an impact on the result of the game — on the court, at least.

"I am used to playing a lot," Gladden said. "I'm used to starting. But I've realized now that what's best for my team. I've grown into my role. I've realized I can help my team without showing up in the box scores."

This season, Gladden is last off the bench and has played a total of 10 minutes in four Missouri Valley games.

"My role has changed tremendously," Gladden said. "And I'm fine with that. On this team, I am working on trying to build a foundation for a new start, a new era in Wichita State women's basketball."

As a senior, Gladden's playing time has been swallowed up by a trio of talented freshmen — Jazimen Gordon, Chynna Turner and Michelle Price.

Instead of taking the request to take a back seat to the youth personally, Gladden became even more supportive of her teammates.

"That's a sign of a great leader," Gordon said. "That's where I want to be. It just amazes me how she can be so positive with us. I'm just really blessed to have a leader like her on the team my freshman year."

During timeouts, Gladden is the first off the bench to greet the starters and her voice holds the same significance as a coach, which Adams has compared her to.

"I've realized how important my voice is to them," Gladden said. "They look to me. They look to hear my voice during games. I know that it means a lot to my team and I'm very proud of that."

Gladden's impact to the program will never show up on a stat sheet. But her worth will be evident in the coming years, when the freshmen grow up and mature into better players.

"I know when I graduate, I'll be able to walk out of here with a big smile on my face," Gladden said. "Through the years when I see the program on the up-and-up, I'll be able to say I helped those girls to where they are now. To me, that makes me feel good."